Devika leaned against the carved stone balcony, gazing up at the twinkling night sky above the palace gardens. Despite the serenity of her surroundings, her mind was in turmoil. She dreaded returning to the overcrowded gathering and the parade of potential suitors within.
As she contemplated slipping away to her private chambers, a shadow fell across the balcony. She turned to find a tall, broad-shouldered man regarding her intently. His fine silks and jeweled turban marked him as one of the noble guests.
"Forgive my intrusion, but I could not help but notice your absence inside. Too many admirers vie for your attention, I suspect." His voice was smooth yet direct.
Devika bristled at the impropriety of this stranger approaching her unchaperoned. Yet something in his confident demeanor intrigued her.
"The festivities grow rather warm. I needed a moment alone before rejoining the celebration," she replied cautiously.
"Of course. But perhaps you might grant me the honor of a stroll through the gardens first?" He smiled disarmingly.
Devika hesitated, weighing her options. Propriety dictated she refuse and return inside immediately. But the prospect of a few more minutes of freedom was sorely tempting.
Before she could respond, the man stepped closer and offered his arm. "Come, the night blooms await."
Against her better judgment, Devika took his arm. As they descended the stone steps into the moonlit garden, she felt a trill of excitement at this impulsive act.
Yet she remained guarded, unsure of her mysterious companion's intentions. They strolled in silence for a time before Devika gently extricated her arm from his.
"I appreciate your gracious invitation, but I really must return." She kept her tone light despite the impropriety of their meeting.
The man nodded. "Of course. Forgive my boldness in stealing you away, even briefly. I am Akash, newly arrived to seek an audience with your lord father."
He bowed respectfully, but his eyes glinted with mischief. "I hope we shall meet again, Lady Devika."
Flustered, Devika quickly retreated inside, her mind spinning. She needed to speak with her father about this brash suitor. His persistence intrigued yet unsettled her. She wondered what he was truly after in seeking her hand.
YOU ARE READING
The Maharaja And I : Inspired by Bridgerton
Historical FictionA story as captivating as any inspired by the scandalous affairs of Bridgerton. The Rajmata faces a challenge: securing a Maharani for the enigmatic Maharaja Suryadev. Bazaars' and temples' gossips of Vijayanagara Empire buzz with speculation. The h...
